In most cases--Massachusetts, New York, and North Carolina, among others--Tesla has managed to stave off the proposed laws, which are typically backed by franchised car dealers, or it has won lawsuits based on current laws that were brought by dealer groups.

MORE: Auto Dealers Fight Against Tesla Stores: Elon Musk Weighs In

But in Texas, which has the nation's most Draconian anti-Tesla rules, the company's lobbying efforts have run into a brick wall.

As a result, Texan Model S owners have had to jump through all sorts of odd hoops to buy and maintain their cars.

"It was kind of a hassle," says Brad Holt, a 26-year old Dallas filmmaker, describing the purchase of his 85-kWh Model S. "But in the end, it was worth it."

Dealers Only

Texas law dictates that only franchised dealers can sell cars in the state.

Tesla, of course, has no dealers. It markets its cars through company-owned stores or galleries (think: Apple Store) and buyers complete the sale online through company headquarters in California.